---

[ ISLAND HOPPING ]

---

'Freedom' on Kauai

Kauai starts its new year with a Freedom Festival from 2 to 9 p.m. today, so if you happen to be on island, head to Vidinha Stadium in Lihue for the show featuring Spearhead with Michael Fronti and a guest appearance by actor Woody Harrelson.

The lineup for "local-kine" music also includes Sudden Rush, Makana, Plus DJ Logic, Scott Huckabay, Sol Fire dancers and Sasha Butterfly.

Tickets are $30; children under 12 will be admitted free. For details, call 808-652-5099.

Big isle romance

The Big Island Visitors Bureau is thinking ahead to the romantic season offering a simple brochure outlining such basic information as favorite wedding sites; contact numbers for hotels, resorts and B&Bs; and a list of wedding planners and vendors.

Call toll-free 1-800-648-2441 to get a copy, or visit www.bigisland.org for information on current packages, such as:

>> The Chalet Kilauea Collection: Accommodations near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are in a native 'ohia and hapu'u fern forest. Rates range from $139 to $399 per night and include a complimentary bottle of champagne and welcome basket. Call 808-967-7786.

>> Parker Ranch: Enjoy the serenity of Upcountry Waimea, while basking in the luxury of historic homes Puuopelu and Mana Hale. Services and options include planning assistance, catering, a horse-drawn wedding carriage, flowers, minister, photography and entertainment. Weddings from two to 400 can be accommodated, with 2004 prices starting at $500 for a two-hour rental of the homes, up to $2,500 for a gala garden party for 400 (services, catering and other options are additional). Call 808-885-2303 for more information.